Ozone therapy is an alternative medical treatment that uses ozone gas (O₃) to treat various conditions by stimulating the immune system, improving oxygen metabolism, and fighting infections. Ozone is a colorless gas made up of three oxygen atoms and is known for its disinfectant and oxidizing properties.

How Ozone Therapy Works

Ozone therapy is believed to work by:

  • Increasing oxygen delivery to tissues by enhancing blood circulation.

  • Stimulating the immune system by activating white blood cells and cytokine production.

  • Killing bacteria, viruses, and fungi due to its strong oxidizing effect.

  • Reducing inflammation by modulating oxidative stress.

  • Promoting antioxidant enzymes that help detoxify the body.

Methods of Administration

Ozone can be administered in several ways, including:

  1. Major Autohemotherapy (MAH) – Blood is drawn, mixed with ozone, and reinfused.

  2. Minor Autohemotherapy – A small amount of ozonated blood is injected intramuscularly.

  3. Ozone Insufflation – Administered via rectum, vagina, or ear.

  4. Topical Application – Ozonated oils or water for wounds, infections, or skin conditions.

  5. Direct Injection – Into joints (for arthritis) or under the skin (for cellulite).

  6. Ozone Sauna – Skin exposure in a steam cabinet infused with ozone.

Benefits

Ozone therapy does help with:

  • Chronic infections (Lyme disease, viral infections)

  • Autoimmune disorders

  • Arthritis and joint pain

  • Wound healing and ulcers

  • Cardiovascular diseases

  • Diabetes-related complications

  • Anti-aging and detoxification

  • Cancer support (though controversial and not FDA-approved)

Risks and Side Effects

  • Pulmonary irritation if inhaled (ozone is toxic to lungs).

  • Oxidative stress if overused, potentially damaging cells.

  • Blood vessel irritation with improper administration.

  • Risk of embolism if injected incorrectly.

  • Some countries (Germany, Russia, Cuba) use it more widely in mainstream medicine.

  • More research is needed to confirm its efficacy for many conditions.

Conclusion

Ozone therapy is a growing field in alternative medicine.